Taranaki Sustainable Trails

Last Friday, on the 30th October 2026, we gathered at Pukekura Park for a sold-out, two-hour Rongoā workshop with Sustainable Trails. Twenty people joined us to explore the plants around us, share knowledge and spend time learning with the taiao.

We began with a hikoi through the park, taking time to notice the rākau growing around us. Rather than simply walking past, we paused to look closely: the shape and texture of leaves, the way plants grow, and the details that help us get to know them. We talked about observing carefully and building a relationship with the rākau through time, respect and attention.

Back together, we looked at harvested Rongoā Rākau up close. This gave everyone a chance to examine the plants in more detail and ask questions about what we had seen on our hikoi. We shared kōrero about working with Rongoā in a way that honours tikanga, the plant and the knowledge passed down to us.

The workshop also included demonstrations of traditional preparations. We showed how plant material can be used to make tinctures, wairākau and healing balms, explaining the different steps and sharing practical insights along the way. Seeing the preparations made in front of us helped connect the plants we had encountered outdoors with the care and knowledge involved in creating Rongoā.

The weather gave us a welcome window to be outside and observe the plants together. There was time for questions, conversation and learning from one another, making the workshop more than a demonstration: it was an opportunity to slow down, share knowledge and strengthen our connection with the natural world.

Ngā mihi nui to Sustainable Trails and everyone who came along. Your curiosity and enthusiasm made this sold-out workshop a special start to the series. It was a privilege to share Rongoā knowledge in Pukekura Park and spend time getting to know our rākau together.